What are tocotrienols?
Tocotrienols and tocopherols are both called vitamin E. Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means it helps neutralize free radicals.
Free radicals are chemicals linked to many health problems, including skin aging, cancer, and many diseases. Free radicals can also cause chronic inflammation.
The main reason tocotrienols may be beneficial is their antioxidant properties. Grains are often rich in tocotrienols.
Good sources include:
- Rice bran
- Oats
- Barley
- Rye
- Crude Palm Oil
The four forms of tocotrienols are alpha, beta, gamma, and delta tocotrienols. Each type of behavior is different and provides a range of health benefits.
How are they different from vitamin E?
Chemistry of vitamin E
Studies have found that only tocopherol can correct vitamin E deficiency, suggesting that tocopherol is the form of vitamin E that the body needs to function effectively.
However, scientists suggest that people interested in getting the most benefit from vitamin E supplements should choose supplements that contain both tocopherols and tocotrienols.
Benefits of vitamin E
Traditional vitamin E in the form of tocopherols and vitamin E in the form of tocotrienols both have similar benefits. They are two antioxidants with the ability to reduce inflammation, potentially promoting anti-cancer, anti-aging and other benefits.
Benefits
However, tocotrienols target specific sources of free radicals and inflammation. Research has found that attacking these targets can provide the following health benefits:
Protect the brain
Some brain health conditions, including dementia, Alzheimer's disease and other forms of brain decline, are associated with free radical damage.
Tocotrienols may be able to combat specific inflammatory factors associated with brain health problems.
A 2014 studyTrusted Source reaffirms the antioxidant activity of tocotrienols and tocopherols in protecting brain cells from free radical damage.
Some research also suggestsTrusted Source tocotrienols may help fight Parkinson's disease or slow its progression.
Improve heart health
Tocotrienols can reduce or reverse inflammation and free radical damage that harm heart health. Tocotrienols may also reduce the effects of other cardiovascular health risk factors, including the impact of high cholesterol on heart health.
Reduce the risk of cancer
Tocotrienols may reduce the risk of cancer by fighting free radical damage. Some studies also suggest that this form of vitamin E can slow the growth of cancer cells. A type of tocotrienol found in the laboratory can promote the death of breast cancer cells.
Research has also found that tocotrienols play a role in fighting liver, colon, prostate, lung, stomach, skin and pancreatic cancer. Some research suggests that gamma and delta tocotrienols may be more effective in fighting cancer than alpha and beta tocotrienols.
Prevent osteoporosis
Tocotrienols can help prevent and reduce bone loss associated with osteoporosis in a variety of ways. Nicotine use can cause osteoporosis, but studies have found that tocotrienols may reduce the risk. Studies in rats have found that tocotrienols can slow the progression of free radical-related bone loss.
People who already have osteoporosis may also benefit from tocotrienols. Tocotrienols support bone growth and help the body replace bone lost due to osteoporosis.
Improve gastrointestinal health
This reduces acidity and prevents the development of painful lesions. Tocotrienols are particularly effective in combating the effects of stress on the gastrointestinal system. In a study on rats comparing tocotrienol to tocopherol, tocotrienol alone prevented stress-related hormonal and acidity changes.
Hair and skin health
Some cosmetic and skin care product manufacturers include both tocopherols and tocotrienols in their vitamin E products. Since tocotrienol is an antioxidant, it may help reverse or slow down the damage caused to the skin by free radicals.
Theoretically, this could prevent wrinkles and help skin look younger. Some research suggests that applying tocotrienols to the skin may help, but the effects are modest and more research is needed.
Side effects
Research has not found any consistent, serious side effects associated with the use of tocotrienols.
As with many other supplements, the main risk is taking too much. People should discuss the correct dosage of tocotrienols with their doctor and not exceed the recommended daily intake listed on the supplement package.
People with a history of allergies, especially food allergies, may wish to start with a low-dose supplement and slowly increase the dose if they don't experience any side effects.
Vitamin E supplements and products containing tocotrienols are available for purchase online.
However, it’s important to note that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements, so it’s important to choose a brand you can trust for purity and quality. Before using any supplements, you should check with your doctor to make sure they are safe for you.
